Peggy and Phil Mitchell
Barbara Windsor was "sick with nerves" on her return to 'EastEnders'.
The 76-year-old actress has reprised her role as Queen Vic landlady Peggy Mitchell three years after she left the show when her alter-ego's pub burned down, but she was terrified about going back on set because she felt like the "new girl" again.
She told The Sun newspaper: "Going back was exactly the same as I had felt 19 years ago ... I felt sick with nerves. I was the new girl again.
"I was nervous, excited, and after a few hiccups at the start I began to really enjoy it."
Despite her concerns, the actress was grateful for the positive reception she received from her former co-stars.
She explained: "I was absolutely overwhelmed to see all those familiar, friendly faces again.
"Fortunately I was surrounded by some of my favourites. I didn't need to tell them how nervous I was, as they know how hard I am on myself.
"I could not have asked for a kinder and more supportive reception. It was a bit of a 'love-in'."
Peggy returns to Albert Square to see her son Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) in hospital after a terrible car accident, and Barbara admits being back in Walford has tempted her to return to the show permanently.
She added: "Of course it has tempted me but who knows what the future holds? To be a part of such a great British institution is an honour."
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